Leaving the Herd to follow the Sheperd, the Altena's Journey - Pastor Mike and Vicki Altena

Summary
In this conversation, Mike and Vicki Altena share their journey from their early lives to their current roles in ministry. Mike discusses his transition from a career in feedlots to becoming a pastor, influenced by a significant spiritual awakening. Vicki provides insights into her support for Mike's calling and their shared experiences in ministry. They reflect on the challenges of leading a church, the importance of community outreach, and the realities of spiritual warfare. The Altenas emphasize the significance of living on mission and the beauty of the abundant life found in faith and service.

Takeaways

• Mike's journey to becoming a pastor began with a spiritual awakening during a renewal weekend.
• Vicki played a crucial role in supporting Mike's calling to ministry.
• The transition to ministry life involved significant personal and family adjustments.
• Seminary was a challenging yet formative experience for Mike.
• Moving to Montevideo presented challenges in community integration and church culture.
• Leading change in a church requires understanding and patience.
• The Altenas emphasize the importance of outreach and discipleship in their ministry.
• Spiritual warfare is a real and present challenge in the lives of believers.
• The church must navigate cultural changes while remaining true to its mission.
• Living an abundant life in faith involves surrendering to God's will and purpose.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Mike and Vicki Altena

01:59
Mike's Journey to Pastorship

05:07
Vicki's Perspective on Mike's Transformation

07:49
The Call to Ministry

10:42
Transitioning to Seminary Life

13:41
Challenges of Moving and Starting Fresh

16:38
Navigating Early Pastoral Responsibilities

19:15
Faith and Financial Provision

22:04
Building Community in a New Town

24:51
Adapting to Church Culture and Outreach

27:22
Lessons Learned in Ministry

31:15
Navigating Church Conflict and Growth

34:49
A New Chapter: Moving to Laverne

38:33
Listening to Divine Guidance

40:44
Living on Mission: Discipleship in Action

44:11
Understanding the Current Cultural Climate

50:17
The Reality of Spiritual Warfare

58:44
Embracing the Abundant Life

01:02:18
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keywords

pastoral ministry, faith journey, church leadership, community outreach, spiritual warfare, discipleship, personal growth,

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